Renewable Revolution

August 15, 2018



Investment in residential solar companies took off this year, as Trump’s tariffs drive Wall Street to be more discerning with their money. While solar panel manufacturers struggle with the impact of the solar tariffs, rooftop developers such as Sunrun and Vivint Solar are faring much better as investors take the time to understand the differences among companies in the maturing industry. Contributing to the rooftop solar investment boost are state-level policies such as California’s recent mandate that all new homes include solar panels by 2020, as well as the extension of federal tax incentives. (Bloomberg)


The Midwest is a hotbed for clean energy, adding nearly 4,000 new jobs across the sector last year, according to a new analysis. While total U.S. clean energy jobs stalled, the Midwest saw five percent growth and now employs over 714,000 people in the sector — four times as many as fossil fuels. Michigan, Illinois and Ohio ranked in the top 10 nationwide for clean energy jobs, with more than 100,000 in each state. Nearly 12 percent of Midwesterners employed in the sector are veterans. (North American Windpower)




Midwest utilities are phasing out coal and investing in more wind and solar. State-mandated renewable portfolio standards are helping drive the trend, but an increasing number of utilities are setting voluntary emissions reduction targets. This month Wisconsin’s two largest public utilities raised their emissions reduction goals from 40 to 80 percent below 2005 levels by mid-century, and plan to meet the goal with more investment in renewables and natural gas. Despite these advancements, environmental advocates across the Midwest argue that utilities need to wean off of coal much sooner. (Greentech Media)



Up to 40 million EV ⚡ charging points will be installed worldwide by 2030, according to a new forecast from GTM research. The report estimates that 11 percent of new vehicle sales will be electric by then. In the U.S., California’s favorable state policies have been driving investment in charging infrastructure and helped create a network that extends up to Canada. Buildout has been slower on the East Coast, but progress is ramping up. Last week Virginia announced it will work with EVgo to build a network of charging stations across the state, using $14 million from Volkswagen settlement funds. (Greentech Media)